Stishovite, a mineral with a chemical composition identical to silica quartz (SiO2), distinguishes itself by possessing a significantly higher density. Silica quartz, although plentifully found in the Earth’s crust, is predominantly present in basalt—an igneous rock variety abundant in iron and magnesium. As basalt from the oceanic crust descends into the profound depths of the Earth during subduction, it undergoes immense pressures and temperatures, resulting in the liquefaction of basalt and the release of fluid—specifically, liquid water. The interaction of these fluids with the encompassing mantle rock consequently alters its composition.
Water Channel Excavation Unveils Secrets of Mineral Stishovite in Groundbreaking Study
